Introduced: 1985 (modern version), based on a 1930s design
Purpose / Inspiration: The Pasha was created to bring bold, round watch design back into Cartier’s lineup—something waterproof, powerful, and distinct. Inspired by a one-off 1930s model allegedly made for the Pasha of Marrakech, the modern Pasha fused sport and luxury with unapologetic flair.
Designer: Gérald Genta (yes, the same designer behind the Royal Oak and Nautilus) reimagined the Pasha in the 1980s under Cartier’s revival efforts
Case size: Originally 38mm, now ranges from 35mm to 41mm; includes chronograph and skeletonized variants
Case options: Stainless steel, yellow gold, rose gold, white gold, and two-tone; many with diamond bezels or grille overlays
Powered by Cartier automatic or quartz movements; modern versions use in-house 1847 MC or chronograph calibers
Bezel: Smooth, sometimes rotating (especially in dive or chronograph versions); some feature a removable grille over the crystal
Dial options: Opaline silver, black, blue, or skeletonized; distinct Arabic numerals at 12, 3, 6, 9 with Cartier’s signature blued hands
Water resistance: 100m (in most models), with a screw-down crown cap chained to the case
Bracelet: Leather strap or metal bracelet; new models include QuickSwitch system and SmartLink for tool-free sizing
Still in production – reintroduced in 2020 with refreshed movement, interchangeable bands, and bold colorways
Why it matters: The Pasha stood out from Cartier’s square-heavy lineup—it was round, oversized, and sporty before those were trends. From royalty to rappers, it’s long been a symbol of confidence and flair.
Round with Swagger: A bold departure from Cartier’s usual elegance
Chain-Capped Crown: The signature screw-down crown with its own leash
Arabic Numerals, Cartier Class: A sport-luxury fusion few can pull off
Grille or No Grille: One watch, two moods—both unmistakably Cartier